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Body found in search for missing Dorset teenager

Police searching for missing teenager Gaia Pope have found a woman's body near Swanage.

Specialist teams made the discovery Saturday afternoon near a coastal path and field where items of clothing were located on Thursday.

Although the body has yet to be formally identified, Gaia's family has been told and are being supported by specially trained officers.

Further forensic examinations will continue - the coroner has been notified. Officers will now investigate the circumstances around the death - which remains 'unexplained' at this time.

Gaia, 19 and from Langton Matravers, was staying at an address in Swanage when she disappeared on the afternoon of Tuesday 7th November 2017.

Since her disappearance searches of the land and coastline in and arround the town have taken place.

Two men aged 19 and 49 and a 71-year-old woman, all from Swanage and known to Gaia, were arrested on suspicion of murder earlier this week and have been released under investigation while enquiries continue.

“I would like to thank the community for their support and understanding while this large-scale investigation continues and their efforts in looking for Gaia.

“We have received a huge amount of support from the public who have contacted us with possible sightings of Gaia and items of found clothing. I can confirm that we have recovered all the clothing we believe Gaia was wearing when she disappeared and, with thanks, we no longer require the public to assist with searches."